Health Status and Driving Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> Maintaining independent mobility among older adults requires complex cognitive and physical health and is influenced by various health-related factors. This study sought to examine the relationship between health-related factors and driving among community-dwelling older adults by comparing the health status of currently driving individuals and those who have ceased driving. <b>Methods:</b> A secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2023 Korean Elderly Survey, collected between 4 September and 12 November 2023. A total of 4114 individuals aged 65 years or older were included. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and weighted binary logistic regressions via IBM SPSS for Windows. <b>Results:</b> Significant health-related factors for driving cessation included having ≥2 chronic diseases (OR = 1.22, <i>p</i> = 0.041), diagnosed depression (OR = 3.64, <i>p</i> = 0.030), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living dependency (OR = 1.67, <i>p</i> = 0.001), visual discomfort (OR = 1.18, <i>p</i> = 0.048), depression risk (OR = 1.34, <i>p</i> = 0.015), suspected cognitive impairment (OR = 1.73, <i>p</i> < 0.001), and poor self-rated health (OR = 1.21, <i>p</i> = 0.029). None of the participants with Parkinson's were currently driving, whereas polypharmacy (≥5 medications) was not statistically significant (OR = 0.77, <i>p</i> = 0.222). Chronic diseases that may affect driving were also not statistically significant. <b>Conclusions:</b> This study highlights the fact that older drivers may have difficulty recognizing health-related risks that affect driving. To support safe mobility, it is essential to implement a health-centered assessment of driving fitness, including an appropriate evaluation cycle, and promote continuous education to raise awareness among older adults.